One of our favorite days of the year is quickly approaching, and we suggest you mark it on your calendar—maybe even use a vacation day at work to take full advantage? National Relaxation Day is on Thursday, August 15th!
That’s right; it’s a day where you’re supposed to put your feet up, unwind, pamper yourself, and do whatever makes you feel calm and serene. If it’s been so long since you relaxed that you just had to search for the definition of “relax,” keep reading, we’ll suggest some ways you can take care of yourself.
Here’s what to do ahead of time to set yourself up for the ultimate relaxation day celebration. And by “celebration” we understand if that means you don’t leave your bed for the entire day. Whatever works for you!
1. Make childcare plans.
If you’re truly making this day about your ultimate serene space, you’re going to want to drop your kids off somewhere. Sure, they’re adorable, funny, and lovable—but they’re also quite demanding, and spending the day with your kids on National Relaxation Day probably doesn’t involve your slippered feet being up and doing all the special things you want to do that day.
2. Stock up on your relaxation essentials.
Does relaxation mean pampering for you? You may want to hit up your local drugstore or online retailer and get a face mask, scented lotions, or mani/pedi supplies. It could also mean picking up a new video game you’ve been wanting to play, buying magazines or books you never get the chance to read, or downloading an album that you never have the chance to listen to in full. For creative and crafters, you may want to get the materials you’ll need to kick-start a new project this day.
3. Get supplies for your food and drink menu.
For many of us, taking part in a day focused on relaxation means avoiding cooking or preparing foods. (Although for many others, cooking is relaxing and creative.) Think about what you’ll want to munch on this day—perhaps fresh sliced fruit, prepared salads or sandwiches, finger foods, favorite snacks or treats—and go shopping a few days before to stock up so you don’t have to lift a finger that day. (Okay, you’ll need to lift a few of them to get food into your mouth, but we digress.)
Perhaps you picture yourself sipping an iced tea on your porch while reading a book or listening to music. You might want a special beverage chilled and ready to drink that day, like a glass of sangria or refreshing lemonade. Make sure these drinks are prepped and chilled the night before so they’ll be ready for you on National Relaxation Day.
4. Think about what you want to do to relax.
What one may find relaxing—reading fiction, listening to podcasts, and watching some Real Housewives shows—might feel like a slow, painful death to someone else. Reflect on the activities you enjoy doing on vacation when you don’t have a care in the world and try to recreate those experiences.
That might be:
- Catching some rays in your backyard by the pool
- Riding your bike
- Crafting
- Devouring a new book
- Baking
- Playing the guitar
- Watching your favorite movies
- Getting a massage
- Calling a friend
Although you might find it helpful to create a list of things you’d like to do on National Relaxation Day in advance, don’t turn it into task list that you feel pressure to work through. You might wake up that day, glance at your list, and decide to venture back under the covers for the ultimate relaxation experience: staying in bed.